The National Breast Cancer Foundation states “Women in the United States get breast cancer more than any other type of cancer except for skin cancer. It is second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women." In fact, this year, researchers estimate that doctors will diagnose nearly 200,000 women and 1,700 men with some form of breast cancer. Of those diagnosed, researches estimate that more than 40,000 women and 450 men will die of the disease.

Breast cancer awareness is of utmost importance. Knowing how to prevent and detect breast cancer is crucial. Spreading knowledge and information throughout society aids in the number of cancers detected and early detection can save lives.

Prevention

Prevention is the key to early detection. Consider the following when creating your prevention plan:

•Monthly breast self-examinations

•Personal calendar to record self-exams, mammograms and appointments

•A low-fat diet, regular exercise, and no smoking or drinking

•Clinical breast examinations every three years from ages 20-39

•Baseline mammogram by the age of 40

•Mammogram every one to two years for women 40-49

•Mammogram every year for women 50 and older

•Report any changes or concerns to your doctor

Risk Factors

Breast cancer results from uncontrolled, irregular cell growth within the body. While anyone can get breast cancer, several risk factors increase your chances of developing the disease. The National Breast Cancer Foundation lists the following risk factors:

•Older age - Half of all women diagnosed are over age sixty-five

•Early onset of menses or late menopause

•Diets high in saturated fat

•Older age at birth of first child or never having given birth

•Personal history of breast cancer or benign breast disease

•A family history, particularly a mother or sister

•Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast/chest

•Breast tissue that is dense on a mammogram

•Taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone

•Obesity

•Moderate alcoholic intake - more than 2 drinks per day

Signs and Symptoms

Pay close attention to changes within the breasts. Changes in shape, feel, color, or texture may indicate the presence of breast cancer. Perform monthly self-exams and immediately report any breast changes to your physician.

How You Can Help

Regularly perform self-exams. Call your doctor to schedule and follow through with all recommended testing. Look for items and services marked with the Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Ribbon. Companies often donate portions of proceeds from these items and services to Breast Cancer Research and Awareness efforts. You might also volunteer with or donate money to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

This article was written by Sherman Rogers of All-waste Dumpster Rental Service. All Waste was started 1998 with a single Mack truck and 12 roll-off dumpsters. Today Rogers, runs an all-Mack fleet of 18 trucks and more than 1200 dumpsters. Sherman donates a portion of his proceeds to breast cancer research and he receives excellent feedback from the public for the dedication he shows for his community. http://thegarbageman.com/ services Macomb County, Shelby Charter Twp, Center Line, Clinton Twp, Chesterfield Twp, Fraser, Roseville, Utica, Detroit, Troy and neighboring cities and communities in the Metro Detroit Michigan area.